The Thai government is moving forward with a plan to tighten regulations surrounding the sale and use of cannabis, a stark shift from its previous position as the first Southeast Asian nation to decriminalize the plant in 2022. The new measures come as concerns grow over unregulated sales, increased recreational use, and public health impacts.
Proposed Crackdown on Recreational Use
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is leading the charge in drafting new regulations that would effectively reclassify cannabis as a controlled substance, restricting its use solely for medical and research purposes. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been vocal about his administration’s stance on limiting cannabis use, particularly among young people.
“We have seen an explosion in recreational cannabis consumption, which was not the original intent of legalization,” Srettha said in a recent press conference. “Our goal is to protect public health and ensure that cannabis is used responsibly, within a framework that prioritizes medical benefits.”
Under the new regulations, cannabis shops, which have proliferated in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, may face stricter licensing requirements or outright bans. Tourists, many of whom visit Thailand expecting easy access to cannabis, could also see significant restrictions in purchasing or consuming cannabis products.
A Rapidly Growing Industry in Jeopardy
Since decriminalization in 2022, Thailand’s cannabis industry has boomed, with thousands of dispensaries and farms emerging across the country. Entrepreneurs and farmers have invested heavily in cultivation, hoping to cash in on what was initially seen as a lucrative opportunity.
However, the proposed regulations have left many in the industry concerned about their future. “If they reverse course and impose strict regulations, it will destroy the businesses that followed government guidelines in good faith,” said Somchai Narongsak, owner of a cannabis dispensary in Bangkok. “We have created jobs, paid taxes, and operated within the law. Now, they’re saying they want to shut us down.”
Farmers who shifted to cannabis cultivation have also expressed fears that their investments will be rendered worthless. Many argue that instead of a ban, the government should focus on refining the existing regulations to ensure safe and legal operations.
Public Opinion Divided
Thai citizens remain divided on the issue. Some, particularly parents and educators, support stricter laws to prevent cannabis from being easily accessible to teenagers. Others argue that banning recreational use could push the industry underground, leading to unregulated sales and black-market activity.
“I don’t want to see Thailand turn into Amsterdam, where tourists come here just for cannabis,” said Bangkok resident Natcha Supakorn. “We need better control to prevent abuse, but banning it completely is not the answer.”
On the other hand, advocates for cannabis reform argue that the industry has provided economic opportunities and has the potential to generate significant tax revenue. “If regulated properly, cannabis could be a billion-dollar industry for Thailand,” said Dr. Anucha Kittisophon, a cannabis researcher. “A complete reversal would be a missed opportunity.”
What’s Next?
The government is expected to present its final proposals for new cannabis regulations in the coming months. If passed, these rules could take effect as early as next year. For now, business owners and consumers remain in a state of uncertainty, waiting to see whether Thailand’s cannabis experiment will continue—or be rolled back entirely.